Driving from Melbourne to Sydney will take at least 8.5 hours, so why not stop by one of the many gorgeous towns or cities along the way? You can take the Hume Highway through central and northeast Victoria or drive along the Princes and Monaro Highways through southern and eastern Victoria.

Try these seven places on a Melbourne to Sydney road trip.

Bright (pictured)

You may have to detour about an hour from M31 but the lovely town of Bright is well worth it. Situated along one of Victoria’s most scenic drives, the Great Alpine Road, Bright is famous for being beautiful at every time of year. Spend time at a winery, explore the area’s many walking trails or perhaps visit a local market.

Albury

Make Stop along the New South Wales/Victorian border at Albury. This thriving border city sits along the Murray River. With beautiful 19th century architecture, bustling cafes and gorgeous scenery surrounding the city, this is a must-see destination on your drive between Melbourne and Sydney.

Goulburn

Australia’s first inland city is a popular stopover for many travelling on the Hume Highway. Shop for antiques, find out about Goulburn’s fascinating history, dine at wineries, explore old cathedrals and find out more about Goulburn’s Rail Heritage.

Blue Mountains

This national park is home to some of Australia’s most spectacular scenery. Visit waterfalls, go bushwalking or simply relax at a day spa. Gaze upon the area’s iconic rock formation ‘The Three Sisters’ and learn the indigenous dreamtime legend behind their existence.

Lakes Entrance

Around 320 kms east of Melbourne, Lakes Entrance is a popular yet peaceful water-front town in Gippsland. Panoramic views, walking trails and many water activities make Lakes Entrance a great family spot.

Canberra

Australia’s capital city has iconic landmarks such as Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial. You can visit the National Gallery of Australia or even take the family to Questacon – a centre that teaches its visitors about science and technology through fun and interactive activities.

Kiama

This peaceful seaside town in New South Wales is perfect for a quick stopover between Sydney and Melbourne – even if it’s just for a coffee at a quiet café. Stunning beaches and pristine forests also surround Kiama.

Brianna Piazza is an Australian television reporter and part-time travel blogger. Originally from Melbourne, she's currently living in Cairns where she works for WIN News and spends her weekends exploring the outdoors Far North Queensland.